48 MA XIMUMPC DECEMBER 2004
M-AUDIO OZONE
Looking something like the piano Schroeder
played for the Peanuts gang, M-Audio’s killer
keyboard and MIDI controller is a snap to config-
ure, and the generous complement of assignable
knobs lets you tweak your software synthesizer as
you play. Got crappy onboard sound in your lap-
top? Don’t sweat it. The Ozone sports 24-bit 96kHz
mic and line level inputs for converting impromp-
tu jam sessions into crisp digital tracks on your
hard drive. $300, http://www.m-audio.comPACIFIC DESIGN ROLLING
DELUXE
Don’t ask elves what kind of luggage they
recommend—check out what they use. These
feisty helpers appear partial to cases from
Pacific Design. That’s probably because today’s
elf carries a laptop, PDA, and no doubt a cell
phone as well; Pacific Digital’s rolling bags
make space for all of these things, and remark-
ably, they don’t look horrible.
$100, http://www.pacificdesign.comDISCHUB
Thanks to the
discHUB, we no lon-
ger have to fret about
damage from stacking
frequently used discs
on top of each other.
Just slip the CD into
one of the neoprene-
covered slots where
it will sit snug as a
bug in a rug until you
need it next. $8-15
(shipping included),
http://www.dischub.comCD WALLPAPER
It might not be the fanciest cookie on the platter, but CD Wallpaper none-
theless makes a great gift. The sheet of translucent vinyl pockets lets you
store 24 discs in the most space-saving of ways —on a wall (sturdy metal
tacks come included). It’s convenient, decorative, utilitarian, and cheer-
ful—just like elves. $9, http://www.thinkgeek.com